Learn how to crochet a sweater step-by-step in the Dwell Sweater video tutorial. This is a fantastic beginner sweater pattern because there is no shaping, increasing or decreasing. Scroll to the bottom of the post for the video tutorial and get the complete free Dwell Sweater written pattern here.
This “How to Crochet a Sweater” video tutorial is part of an ongoing collaboration with my friends at Lion Brand Yarn. This post contains affiliate links.
It’s been so fun to see so many of you making the new Dwell Sweater! It sounds like a lot of us have wondered how to crochet a sweater, but always thought it was too difficult, time consuming and overwhelming to tackle. (This was definitely me until about seven months ago.)
Well, if that describes you, this video tutorial has your name all over it! The Dwell Sweater is based on extremely simple construction, yet it comes together to create a quite cozy and stylish end result. The chunkier Lion Brand Wool-Ease Tonal yarn makes the entire sweater work up surprisingly quickly (I made mine in less than a week and I wasn’t even crocheting like a maniac!), while still maintaining a beautiful and comfortable drape.
In this video tutorial, I show you each step of the process of crocheting the Dwell Sweater, including how to crochet the initial rectangle using the zeros and crosses stitch, how to seam the rectangle into a shrug, and then how to add the collar, sleeve cuffs and (best of all!) pockets.
You will definitely want to reference the free written pattern while working from the video because you’ll need to know specific stitch and row counts for the size you’re making.
More Free Crochet Sweater Patterns With Video Tutorials
If you are excited about the Dwell crochet sweater, you might want to check out these free modern crochet sweater patterns. Bonus – they all come with detailed, step-by-step video tutorials. You can find all our other crochet sweater patterns here!
UPDATE:Lion Brand has turned this pattern into a kit that includes all the yarn you’ll need plus a black and white copy of the pattern. I think this is such a fun gift to give yourself! Grab yours here.)
1. 1 Hour Beanie – This slightly slouchy easy child’s crochet hat pattern works up in about an hour and is perfect for beginners because it’s made from a simple rectangle.
2. Alfresco Top – If you can crochet a rectangle, you can make this easy crochet top pattern! With very simple stitches and minimal counting, this lightweight top is a perfect mindless make to work on poolside.
3. Solstice Long Cardigan – Minimal counting and two short seams come together in an easy, crochet long cardigan that’s perfect for layering.
4. Tributary Baby Blanket – Learn how to make a beginner crochet baby blanket with this easy free pattern and tutorial. You’ll be left with very few ends to weave in and a blanket that’s as soft as a baby’s…well, you know.
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Comments
Grace
Really glad you posted this video!! I was having such a hard time trying to figure out the cross stitch!! this is the first thing I’ve ever crocheted, I owe all of my talent to you!😜
I’m sorry you’re having trouble Paula. I haven’t gotten it up on Youtube quite yet, but I hope to soon. In the meantime, you might want to try it in a different internet browser and see if that helps. 🙂
Ooo ooo ooo I think I can do this! I have always been intimidated by the arm portions of garment patterns and when I try, I just end up abandoning them. So thanks! Plus , you have instructions in my size, yay!
Thanks! Do you think this sweater would work with the following changes? A different yarn that wool ease, such as acrylic, A weight category 6. I was hoping to find yarn that was a bit cheaper since I would need 10 skeins lol Thanks
So you’d sub a yarn that’s the same weight as the Wool Ease Tonal? If that’s the case, I def think that could work! I’m also curious if holding two strands of worsted weight together might work. You could try a gauge swatch and see if it’s similar to the gauge I list in the pattern. 🙂
Booo! I’m sorry it’s not working for you. I’ll look into that. Which web browser are you using? I haven’t gotten it on Youtube yet, so right now, this is the only place to view it. You might just try loading the page in a different internet browser and see if that works.
I just started the Dwell Chunky shawl and finished my SC row. I am making s/m – it looks even but my SC count is only 82 SC’s. Shouldn’t I have 95 stitches? May have messed up already. I have all the x stitches and they look right. Thanks so much Diane
I believe you should have 91. Essentially, you “lost” four chains to the turning chain of the first row, so there should be your starting amount minus 4.
Maybe recount or measure your work so far to see if it’s the width I list for the SM rectangle?
Great question. I just might! It’s been a pretty popular pattern, so I don’t think you’re the only one who would like it. If I get a little break in the full on crochet sprint I have planned this fall and winter, I’ll put one together. 🙂
Jess, i am getting an urge to make this sweater today, i wish i could do that but working on afghans which will take probably a week or so, would definitely want to share it with you. Your instructions are so clear and concise in the video that even a beginner crocheter can start. Thanks tons for sharing it. I will also subscribe to your blog for more posts like this.
I would love to make your Dwell Sweater but I can’t get the video to load with either Explorer or Chrome! Would you mind sharing what browser this video will work with. I have completed the first row using the the single crochet and chain stitch combined but I need the video to carry on.
I’m so sorry to hear you’re having trouble. I know others are able to view it in Chrome, so perhaps it’s specific to your browser? I’m hoping to get it up on Youtube soon, which I’m guessing will work just fine for you. If you have a smart phone, is it working on there?
finished this in 4days, YOU ARE AMAZING! SO glad I found your site! goin out tomorrow for yarn to make your awesome slouch slippers for this winter! THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR TALENT!
Jess, Hi! I love the sweater pattern, but am not a fan of chunky yarn. I’ve made a sample of it in regular medium (4) weight yarn and I really like it. My question is, for the starting chain, and for the sleeves will just doubling the chain counts work? Thanks!!
I would make a little swatch and get an idea of the gauge. Then you can determine your stitch counts based on making a rectangle a similar size to what I list in the “main rectangle” section of the pattern. You’ll want to start with a chain in a multiple of 2 and then add 4 additional chains for the foundation ch.
How many little windows should I have for the s/m size sweater? I bought the pattern because it said it had the stick count but its not in the pattern.
Hi. In your story here you say to refer to the free written pattern. When i click on where to get the written pattern it says i have to pay 2.75 for the add free pattern. No offence but thats not free and not every one has a credit card.
Hi Jess! Just finished watching your video for the chunky cardigan. I love it!!! Always been afraid to try something like this but your video tutorial seems easy to follow. I will give it a try starting tonight. Thank you! Sandra
I’m on my second sweater but I’m having an issue with the collar. Or rather, the very obvious transition from the body of the sweater to the collar along the bottom. It’s like a 90* angle there but on yours it looks pretty straight across. I don’t know why both of mine ended up this way. I followed your video and pattern exactly…or so I thought. Do you know what I mean? Where the pockets go, it’s a definite drop down. Thank you for the pattern. I love it! I gave the first sweater (the guinea pig 😜) to my sister and keep the second one for myself.
Hello, I’m so in love with this cardigan, it’s just beautiful. I’ve started it and when I was watching the video, I noticed that when your doing the stitch, that you pull up on the yarn which makes it kinda loose . I tend to crochet tight, but not to tight, but not a A’s loose as yours. Will this make a difference in the size , and if so should I just add a few more rows if needed? Thanks in advance for any advice that you can give me.
I did find that I needed to pull the yarn up a bit in order to work the “X” portion of the stitch. If you find that your rectangle is a bit short though after working the recommended number of rows, you can def work a few extra repeats to extend the height. 🙂
Hi Jess, I’m trying to view your tutorial and it’s pitch black. I was able to see the ad in the beginning and last night I was able to watch it from start to finish with no problem. Is the video on YouTube? Thank you!!!
Hello I have started this a few times and I am not sure what am I missing. I am doing the LG/XLG one. I do my chain and after following instructions I end with 53dc only. I Am I not to skip one chain from the foundation chain? I have watched the video and read instructions.. skip a chain bottom and make chain on top… not sure what am I doing wrong Please help 😩
When you’re counting your total stitches to match the stitch count in the pattern, are you including ch-1 sps? The stitch count in the pattern includes all the stitches in the row.
I have started this tonight. I am just curious how long does it normally take to make? I worked nonstop 4hrs and only made it to my 4th set of “X” stitch. BTW your video made it very simple to learn! Thank You!
So I’m confused. The free pattern says the model is wearing a s/m so the original triangle would have 12 “windows”but in the video I️ counted 14? Also you said you ended the rectangle on the 2nd row but it looks like to me you ended on the fourth and that’s what the pattern said too? Could you clarify?
I had to adjust the written pattern after I shot the video to make sure people wouldn’t have to buy an extra skein of yarn just to use a few yards of it. So, follow the written pattern for the number of windows and measurements and it will work out to the dimensions listed. 🙂
You are an incredible designer! I’m so glad to have found your blog! Ī love the look of this sweater! Ī hope you will continue to share your patterns with us. I’m wondering how you decide what you are going to make? If you need an idea Ī have something in mind😉😉 Take care!
Thanks so much. It’s really been fun for me to make and share my projects with others. I’m all ears for new ideas! If you’d like to email me, please do at jess (at) makeanddocrew (dot) com. 🙂
I’ve just completed the rectangle. It’s so lovely so far! Can’t wait to wear it. I don’t see anything about blocking in the pattern.shoululd I go ahead and do that before I start adding the parts?
It just depends on what yarn you used. If your yarn is mostly acrylic, you shouldn’t need to block it. (I didn’t block mine because it was lying well without blocking.)
Hello!! I love the look of this cardigan! I’m looking to do this exact shape but without having the large holes! Do you recommend a stitch that will provide a chunkier look (similar to cable knit that doesn’t have holes)?
In the written directions, it says to make the second leg of the X behind the first leg. In the video, when you’re adding the collar, it looks like you’re making the second leg in front of the first…
I’ve tried watching the video on 4 different devices and it freezes and closes out. Is this on youtube? I’ve not been able to find it. Also, The written pattern confused me a bit. It says for the largest 14 window rows but that looks really small.
Hi Jess I’m working on the Dwell sweater have completed rectangle and joined both sides leaving opening for cuff. Is it the double crochet at the edge of seam tat I start the collar. Video not working I’m new to crocheting would appreciate your help. Thank you
Do you happen to have an alternate stitch to avoid the little ‘windows’ created btvthe row of dc ch 1. I would like a tighter stitch and was wondering if I would do two rows of single crochet instead of the row of double crochet? It grts cold where I live and would love to make this to wear in the winter! Any suggestions?? I love this pattern.
I feel you! To keep the same row height, I’d just work dcs in each st instead of doing the dc, ch 1, dc. Does that make sense? I do think two rows of sc would work fine too if you’re willing to do a little more counting with your rows differing from the pattern. 🙂
I’d love to see how that turns out. I know a few other people have wanted to make their sweaters extra warm too.
Hi! I love the pattern as well but the XL/XXL Patten is too small. The sleeves come out too short and where the sweater meets the hips, for those of us with larger hips, it curves back making it look WAY too small. Even after working the front and the collar on to it. I am going to have to modify it. It seems that even the XL/XXL size if for a small woman like size 2 to 5. Not quite the average sizes.
Thanks for the feedback on this. I’m curious if your gauge was the same as the pattern calls for? The pattern as written for a medium would be far too large for a woman’s size 2-5, so I’m interested to figure out why yours is so small.
For reference, the model in the photos is wearing the small/medium, is 5’8″ and wears a size 6.
I’ve frogged this thing 3 times – After a few repeats of the pattern the rectangle starts turning into a triangle. I hope after watching this vid, I can figure out what I’m doing wrong before the yarn I’m using is too tired to work.
Really glad you posted this video!! I was having such a hard time trying to figure out the cross stitch!! this is the first thing I’ve ever crocheted, I owe all of my talent to you!😜
The video won’t load. It keeps switching to a target add.. ugh. I wigh this was available on utube. Please 😊
I’m sorry you’re having trouble Paula. I haven’t gotten it up on Youtube quite yet, but I hope to soon. In the meantime, you might want to try it in a different internet browser and see if that helps. 🙂
Jess
Ooo ooo ooo I think I can do this! I have always been intimidated by the arm portions of garment patterns and when I try, I just end up abandoning them. So thanks! Plus , you have instructions in my size, yay!
Yay! Yay! Yay! Hope you enjoy, Deanna!
Thanks! Do you think this sweater would work with the following changes? A different yarn that wool ease, such as acrylic, A weight category 6. I was hoping to find yarn that was a bit cheaper since I would need 10 skeins lol
Thanks
Hey Deanna,
So you’d sub a yarn that’s the same weight as the Wool Ease Tonal? If that’s the case, I def think that could work! I’m also curious if holding two strands of worsted weight together might work. You could try a gauge swatch and see if it’s similar to the gauge I list in the pattern. 🙂
Jess
bonjour madame je ne sais pas traduire la vidéo dell sweter en francais pour pouvoir confectionner le gilet. merci bcp de votre travail !
Dwell Sweater pardon je ne.suis pas douée pour l.anglais lol.merco de me dire si vous pouvez traduire la vidéo 😉
The video is unwatchable on this webpage. Is it posted some place else? Thanks.
Booo! I’m sorry it’s not working for you. I’ll look into that. Which web browser are you using? I haven’t gotten it on Youtube yet, so right now, this is the only place to view it. You might just try loading the page in a different internet browser and see if that works.
Jess
I just started the Dwell Chunky shawl and finished my SC row. I am making s/m – it looks even but my SC count is only 82 SC’s. Shouldn’t I have 95 stitches?
May have messed up already. I have all the x stitches and they look right.
Thanks so much
Diane
I believe you should have 91. Essentially, you “lost” four chains to the turning chain of the first row, so there should be your starting amount minus 4.
Maybe recount or measure your work so far to see if it’s the width I list for the SM rectangle?
Do you think you will ever do a full video on the campfire cardigan? I loved your sweater video.
Great question. I just might! It’s been a pretty popular pattern, so I don’t think you’re the only one who would like it. If I get a little break in the full on crochet sprint I have planned this fall and winter, I’ll put one together. 🙂
Jess
Jess, i am getting an urge to make this sweater today, i wish i could do that but working on afghans which will take probably a week or so, would definitely want to share it with you. Your instructions are so clear and concise in the video that even a beginner crocheter can start. Thanks tons for sharing it. I will also subscribe to your blog for more posts like this.
XXX
Hannah
I’m so happy to hear that, Hannah! Thanks for the feedback!
I would love to make your Dwell Sweater but I can’t get the video to load with either Explorer or Chrome! Would you mind sharing what browser this video will work with. I have completed the first row using the the single crochet and chain stitch combined but I need the video to carry on.
Hey Dianna,
I’m so sorry to hear you’re having trouble. I know others are able to view it in Chrome, so perhaps it’s specific to your browser? I’m hoping to get it up on Youtube soon, which I’m guessing will work just fine for you. If you have a smart phone, is it working on there?
Jess
finished this in 4days, YOU ARE AMAZING!
SO glad I found your site!
goin out tomorrow for yarn to make your awesome slouch slippers for this winter!
THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR TALENT!
YAY! I’m happy you’re here!
Wow! Four days is so speedy! I hope you enjoy your new sweater. I’ve been loving mine. 🙂
Jess
Love this sweater. It works up super fast you! But I was wondering if you could give me the length across the recrangke.
Hey Cheryl,
If you click over to the free pattern, you should be able to find those measurements in the “main rectangle” section of the pattern. 🙂
Jess
Jess, Hi! I love the sweater pattern, but am not a fan of chunky yarn. I’ve made a sample of it in regular medium (4) weight yarn and I really like it. My question is, for the starting chain, and for the sleeves will just doubling the chain counts work? Thanks!!
Hey Linda,
I would make a little swatch and get an idea of the gauge. Then you can determine your stitch counts based on making a rectangle a similar size to what I list in the “main rectangle” section of the pattern. You’ll want to start with a chain in a multiple of 2 and then add 4 additional chains for the foundation ch.
Happy crocheting!
Jess
How many little windows should I have for the s/m size sweater? I bought the pattern because it said it had the stick count but its not in the pattern.
Hi.
In your story here you say to refer to the free written pattern.
When i click on where to get the written pattern it says i have to pay 2.75 for the add free pattern.
No offence but thats not free and not every one has a credit card.
Hey Fionna,
The free pattern is right above this comment area within the blog post. The $2.75 is simply if you want the printable PDF version. 🙂
Jess
Hi Jess!
Just finished watching your video for the chunky cardigan. I love it!!! Always been afraid to try something like this but your video tutorial seems easy to follow. I will give it a try starting tonight.
Thank you!
Sandra
Yay! I’m so happy to hear that Sandra! Here’s to trying new things! 🙂
I’m on my second sweater but I’m having an issue with the collar. Or rather, the very obvious transition from the body of the sweater to the collar along the bottom. It’s like a 90* angle there but on yours it looks pretty straight across. I don’t know why both of mine ended up this way. I followed your video and pattern exactly…or so I thought. Do you know what I mean? Where the pockets go, it’s a definite drop down. Thank you for the pattern. I love it! I gave the first sweater (the guinea pig 😜) to my sister and keep the second one for myself.
Hey Kym,
Would you like to send me a photo so I can better see what you’re talking about? Jess (at) makeanddocrew (dot) com 🙂
jess
Very beautiful, thank you for sharing.
Hello, I’m so in love with this cardigan, it’s just beautiful. I’ve started it and when I was watching the video, I noticed that when your doing the stitch, that you pull up on the yarn which makes it kinda loose . I tend to crochet tight, but not to tight, but not a A’s loose as yours. Will this make a difference in the size , and if so should I just add a few more rows if needed? Thanks in advance for any advice that you can give me.
Hey Rhinda,
I did find that I needed to pull the yarn up a bit in order to work the “X” portion of the stitch. If you find that your rectangle is a bit short though after working the recommended number of rows, you can def work a few extra repeats to extend the height. 🙂
Jess
Hi Jess, I’m trying to view your tutorial and it’s pitch black. I was able to see the ad in the beginning and last night I was able to watch it from start to finish with no problem. Is the video on YouTube? Thank you!!!
Hello
I have started this a few times and I am not sure what am I missing.
I am doing the LG/XLG one.
I do my chain and after following instructions I end with 53dc only.
I
Am I not to skip one chain from the foundation chain?
I have watched the video and read instructions.. skip a chain bottom and make chain on top… not sure what am I doing wrong
Please help 😩
Hey Hilda,
When you’re counting your total stitches to match the stitch count in the pattern, are you including ch-1 sps? The stitch count in the pattern includes all the stitches in the row.
Jess
I have started this tonight. I am just curious how long does it normally take to make? I worked nonstop 4hrs and only made it to my 4th set of “X” stitch. BTW your video made it very simple to learn! Thank You!
So I’m confused. The free pattern says the model is wearing a s/m so the original triangle would have 12 “windows”but in the video I️ counted 14? Also you said you ended the rectangle on the 2nd row but it looks like to me you ended on the fourth and that’s what the pattern said too? Could you clarify?
I had to adjust the written pattern after I shot the video to make sure people wouldn’t have to buy an extra skein of yarn just to use a few yards of it. So, follow the written pattern for the number of windows and measurements and it will work out to the dimensions listed. 🙂
You are an incredible designer! I’m so glad to have found your blog! Ī love the look of this sweater! Ī hope you will continue to share your patterns with us. I’m wondering how you decide what you are going to make? If you need an idea Ī have something in mind😉😉
Take care!
Hey!
Thanks so much. It’s really been fun for me to make and share my projects with others. I’m all ears for new ideas! If you’d like to email me, please do at jess (at) makeanddocrew (dot) com. 🙂
Jess
I’ve just completed the rectangle. It’s so lovely so far! Can’t wait to wear it. I don’t see anything about blocking in the pattern.shoululd I go ahead and do that before I start adding the parts?
Hey Beth,
It just depends on what yarn you used. If your yarn is mostly acrylic, you shouldn’t need to block it. (I didn’t block mine because it was lying well without blocking.)
Happy sweater making!
Jess
Hello!! I love the look of this cardigan! I’m looking to do this exact shape but without having the large holes! Do you recommend a stitch that will provide a chunkier look (similar to cable knit that doesn’t have holes)?
Thank you!!
Sort of like how you have the cuff stitched (very close together) (sorry forgot to mention that in my comment! haha!
Hey! I bet you could find some good options in this list of crochet stitches I put together!
I also did this tutorial on making crochet look knit. This stitch works flat or in the round, but it looks a little more like knitting in the round.
Another option is doing half double crochet through the back loop only. That often looks slightly ribbed. 🙂
Great! Ill take a look at those links! Thanks so much! Can’t wait to get started!
If you want to use 2 colors for the sweater what would be your suggestion on when to switch?
Hmm. Maybe use a different color for the collar, pockets and maybe sleeves? Send me a pic if you do–I’d love to see!
Jess
In the written directions, it says to make the second leg of the X behind the first leg. In the video, when you’re adding the collar, it looks like you’re making the second leg in front of the first…
Hay Jess thanks for pattern I’ve got 12 blocks completed think it’s short can I add more blocks. Thank you.
Yes! You can just keep repeating that sequence of rows until you’re happy with the length. 🙂
I’ve tried watching the video on 4 different devices and it freezes and closes out. Is this on youtube? I’ve not been able to find it.
Also, The written pattern confused me a bit. It says for the largest 14 window rows but that looks really small.
Hey Melinda,
I’m sorry you’re having trouble. It will be on youtube soon.
The windows reference is in regard to the height of the rectangle. Each window represents 3 total rows.
Jess
Hi Jess I’m working on the Dwell sweater have completed rectangle and joined both sides leaving opening for cuff. Is it the double crochet at the edge of seam tat I start the collar. Video not working I’m new to crocheting would appreciate your help. Thank you
Hey May,
I’m not sure I’m understanding your question. Can you please rephrase it? I’d be happy to help if I can. 🙂
Jess
Jess iv sewed seams of rectangle lm not sure wer to start the collar. Thank you.
Do you happen to have an alternate stitch to avoid the little ‘windows’ created btvthe row of dc ch 1. I would like a tighter stitch and was wondering if I would do two rows of single crochet instead of the row of double crochet? It grts cold where I live and would love to make this to wear in the winter! Any suggestions?? I love this pattern.
Hey Jenn,
I feel you! To keep the same row height, I’d just work dcs in each st instead of doing the dc, ch 1, dc. Does that make sense? I do think two rows of sc would work fine too if you’re willing to do a little more counting with your rows differing from the pattern. 🙂
I’d love to see how that turns out. I know a few other people have wanted to make their sweaters extra warm too.
Jess
Hi! I love the pattern as well but the XL/XXL Patten is too small. The sleeves come out too short and where the sweater meets the hips, for those of us with larger hips, it curves back making it look WAY too small. Even after working the front and the collar on to it. I am going to have to modify it. It seems that even the XL/XXL size if for a small woman like size 2 to 5. Not quite the average sizes.
Hey Laura,
Thanks for the feedback on this. I’m curious if your gauge was the same as the pattern calls for? The pattern as written for a medium would be far too large for a woman’s size 2-5, so I’m interested to figure out why yours is so small.
For reference, the model in the photos is wearing the small/medium, is 5’8″ and wears a size 6.
Jess
What length should the rectangle be in the first instance after doing the 12 rows? Thanks you
Hey Melissa,
You can find those details in the free written pattern here. 🙂
Jess
Your sweaters are beautiful. I am just learning to crochet but would love to try one of your patterns.
I’ve frogged this thing 3 times – After a few repeats of the pattern the rectangle starts turning into a triangle. I hope after watching this vid, I can figure out what I’m doing wrong before the yarn I’m using is too tired to work.
En español!!!!!!! Plisssssss